Mogadishu, Somalia – Somalia’s tourism sector quietly recorded one of its strongest years in decades, drawing an estimated 10,000 visitors in 2024 — a figure the Department of Tourism says represents a remarkable 50 percent jump from the previous year. The rise, reported by CNN, paints an unexpected picture of curiosity and cautious optimism in a country long defined internationally by conflict, instability and dire travel advisories.
The visitors arriving in Mogadishu and other regions this year are not just thrill-seekers or business travelers passing through. Many are members of the Somali diaspora returning after years abroad, others are investors scouting opportunities in a fast-changing market, and a growing number are adventurous tourists drawn by the country’s untouched coastlines, centuries-old heritage sites and the warm hospitality that locals take pride in.
While Somalia remains subject to strict warnings from most Western governments advising against all non-essential travel, the steady improvement in security in key urban areas, along with expanding domestic airlines and hotel upgrades, has encouraged more people to take the leap. Travel agencies operating in the region say they are seeing a slow but steady shift in perception, helped by social media posts showcasing the country’s beaches, food, and bustling city life.
For Somalia, the rise in tourist numbers is more than a statistic. It signals a small but meaningful vote of confidence in a nation trying to redefine its global image while navigating persistent security and economic challenges. As the country continues to open up, officials hope the momentum will draw even more visitors — and investment — in the coming years.